Mokena Native Dean Anna Makes New York Yankees Opening Game Roster

Lincoln-Way East grad Dean Anna will take the field on the New York Yankees Opening Day. 

The Yankees latest addition, Anna is set to take to Minute Maid Park on April 1, for the team’s opening game against the Houston Astros.  

Although his Opening Day position has yet to be revealed, Anna is expected to bring strength to the Yankees’ infield after playing second base, third base and shortstop during spring training.

Anna signed with the Yankees back in February and has been hard at work in Tampa, training alongside pinstripe vets like Derek Jeter.  

“It was a long journey to get to where I am now, but it was all worth the ride,” said Anna about making the Opening Day roster. “Every step of the journey has been leading to this moment, and it’s great to finally be here.”  

Prior to his signing with the Major Leagues, the left-handed batter made waves in the Tucson Padres Triple-A League, even taking home the title of 2013 Pacific Coast League Batting Champion with a .331 average.  

“It’s great to see Dean finally make his way through the baseball system and really be part of a dream come true,” said Anna’s MLB agent, Brian Brundage. “To get your Big League start with the Yankees ... it’s just an amazing experience and a true honor for him.”  

Anna will be wearing number 45 come Opening Day, as an homage to the number his childhood hero, Michael Jordan, wore after coming out of retirement.  After three-game series with the Astros and the Toronto Blue Jays, Anna and the rest of the team will return to Yankee Stadium for the team’s home opener against the Baltimore Orioles on Monday, April 7.  

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